In my quest to understand why people relocate to Portugal, I've delved beyond the obvious allure of a warm, sunny climate and lower cost of living. Through interviews and insights from immigrants and expats, I've uncovered the deeper motivations driving their decisions to start afresh in this beautiful country. Here, we explore the most compelling reasons behind their relocations.
Dissatisfaction with the Present The realisation that one's life has not unfolded as anticipated is a common trigger for desiring a fresh start. This was especially pronounced during the Covid lockdowns, which led many people to re-evaluate their lives, work, and ways of living. Sophie, a teacher from York now living in the Algarve, shares, "Before the lockdowns, I felt like I was just going through the motions every day—teaching classes, grading papers, and then collapsing on the sofa, exhausted.
But when the world slowed down, I realised I needed a change, something more fulfilling. Here, I’ve found a new rhythm—I tutor online in my own time and on my own terms, then I volunteer at an animal shelter and reconnect with nature. Relocation has allowed me to rediscover parts of myself that I’d forgotten existed.
" Career Dissatisfaction Many of us spend a significant portion of our lives at work, and job satisfaction greatly impacts overall well-being. However, sometimes we find ourselves in professions that fail to ignite our passions. The monotony of a job that no longer challenges or fulfils.